US10457223B2 - Electronics systems cluster with interlocking brackets - Google Patents
Electronics systems cluster with interlocking brackets Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US10457223B2 US10457223B2 US16/288,443 US201916288443A US10457223B2 US 10457223 B2 US10457223 B2 US 10457223B2 US 201916288443 A US201916288443 A US 201916288443A US 10457223 B2 US10457223 B2 US 10457223B2
- Authority
- US
- United States
- Prior art keywords
- brackets
- windshield
- electronics systems
- interlocking feature
- systems cluster
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Active
Links
- 238000000034 method Methods 0.000 claims description 21
- 239000000853 adhesive Substances 0.000 claims description 10
- 230000001070 adhesive effect Effects 0.000 claims description 10
- 230000009471 action Effects 0.000 description 3
- 238000010438 heat treatment Methods 0.000 description 3
- 230000004048 modification Effects 0.000 description 3
- 238000012986 modification Methods 0.000 description 3
- 238000004519 manufacturing process Methods 0.000 description 1
- 230000037361 pathway Effects 0.000 description 1
Images
Classifications
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
- B60R—VEHICLES, VEHICLE FITTINGS, OR VEHICLE PARTS, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
- B60R11/00—Arrangements for holding or mounting articles, not otherwise provided for
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
- B60K—ARRANGEMENT OR MOUNTING OF PROPULSION UNITS OR OF TRANSMISSIONS IN VEHICLES; ARRANGEMENT OR MOUNTING OF PLURAL DIVERSE PRIME-MOVERS IN VEHICLES; AUXILIARY DRIVES FOR VEHICLES; INSTRUMENTATION OR DASHBOARDS FOR VEHICLES; ARRANGEMENTS IN CONNECTION WITH COOLING, AIR INTAKE, GAS EXHAUST OR FUEL SUPPLY OF PROPULSION UNITS IN VEHICLES
- B60K35/00—Instruments specially adapted for vehicles; Arrangement of instruments in or on vehicles
- B60K35/50—Instruments characterised by their means of attachment to or integration in the vehicle
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
- B60K—ARRANGEMENT OR MOUNTING OF PROPULSION UNITS OR OF TRANSMISSIONS IN VEHICLES; ARRANGEMENT OR MOUNTING OF PLURAL DIVERSE PRIME-MOVERS IN VEHICLES; AUXILIARY DRIVES FOR VEHICLES; INSTRUMENTATION OR DASHBOARDS FOR VEHICLES; ARRANGEMENTS IN CONNECTION WITH COOLING, AIR INTAKE, GAS EXHAUST OR FUEL SUPPLY OF PROPULSION UNITS IN VEHICLES
- B60K35/00—Instruments specially adapted for vehicles; Arrangement of instruments in or on vehicles
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
- B60K—ARRANGEMENT OR MOUNTING OF PROPULSION UNITS OR OF TRANSMISSIONS IN VEHICLES; ARRANGEMENT OR MOUNTING OF PLURAL DIVERSE PRIME-MOVERS IN VEHICLES; AUXILIARY DRIVES FOR VEHICLES; INSTRUMENTATION OR DASHBOARDS FOR VEHICLES; ARRANGEMENTS IN CONNECTION WITH COOLING, AIR INTAKE, GAS EXHAUST OR FUEL SUPPLY OF PROPULSION UNITS IN VEHICLES
- B60K35/00—Instruments specially adapted for vehicles; Arrangement of instruments in or on vehicles
- B60K35/10—Input arrangements, i.e. from user to vehicle, associated with vehicle functions or specially adapted therefor
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
- B60K—ARRANGEMENT OR MOUNTING OF PROPULSION UNITS OR OF TRANSMISSIONS IN VEHICLES; ARRANGEMENT OR MOUNTING OF PLURAL DIVERSE PRIME-MOVERS IN VEHICLES; AUXILIARY DRIVES FOR VEHICLES; INSTRUMENTATION OR DASHBOARDS FOR VEHICLES; ARRANGEMENTS IN CONNECTION WITH COOLING, AIR INTAKE, GAS EXHAUST OR FUEL SUPPLY OF PROPULSION UNITS IN VEHICLES
- B60K35/00—Instruments specially adapted for vehicles; Arrangement of instruments in or on vehicles
- B60K35/60—Instruments characterised by their location or relative disposition in or on vehicles
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
- B60K—ARRANGEMENT OR MOUNTING OF PROPULSION UNITS OR OF TRANSMISSIONS IN VEHICLES; ARRANGEMENT OR MOUNTING OF PLURAL DIVERSE PRIME-MOVERS IN VEHICLES; AUXILIARY DRIVES FOR VEHICLES; INSTRUMENTATION OR DASHBOARDS FOR VEHICLES; ARRANGEMENTS IN CONNECTION WITH COOLING, AIR INTAKE, GAS EXHAUST OR FUEL SUPPLY OF PROPULSION UNITS IN VEHICLES
- B60K37/00—Dashboards
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
- B60R—VEHICLES, VEHICLE FITTINGS, OR VEHICLE PARTS, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
- B60R16/00—Electric or fluid circuits specially adapted for vehicles and not otherwise provided for; Arrangement of elements of electric or fluid circuits specially adapted for vehicles and not otherwise provided for
- B60R16/02—Electric or fluid circuits specially adapted for vehicles and not otherwise provided for; Arrangement of elements of electric or fluid circuits specially adapted for vehicles and not otherwise provided for electric constitutive elements
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
- B60S—SERVICING, CLEANING, REPAIRING, SUPPORTING, LIFTING, OR MANOEUVRING OF VEHICLES, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
- B60S1/00—Cleaning of vehicles
- B60S1/02—Cleaning windscreens, windows or optical devices
- B60S1/023—Cleaning windscreens, windows or optical devices including defroster or demisting means
- B60S1/026—Cleaning windscreens, windows or optical devices including defroster or demisting means using electrical means
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H05—ELECTRIC TECHNIQUES NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
- H05K—PRINTED CIRCUITS; CASINGS OR CONSTRUCTIONAL DETAILS OF ELECTRIC APPARATUS; MANUFACTURE OF ASSEMBLAGES OF ELECTRICAL COMPONENTS
- H05K5/00—Casings, cabinets or drawers for electric apparatus
- H05K5/02—Details
- H05K5/0208—Interlock mechanisms; Means for avoiding unauthorised use or function, e.g. tamperproof
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H05—ELECTRIC TECHNIQUES NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
- H05K—PRINTED CIRCUITS; CASINGS OR CONSTRUCTIONAL DETAILS OF ELECTRIC APPARATUS; MANUFACTURE OF ASSEMBLAGES OF ELECTRICAL COMPONENTS
- H05K5/00—Casings, cabinets or drawers for electric apparatus
- H05K5/02—Details
- H05K5/03—Covers
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H05—ELECTRIC TECHNIQUES NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
- H05K—PRINTED CIRCUITS; CASINGS OR CONSTRUCTIONAL DETAILS OF ELECTRIC APPARATUS; MANUFACTURE OF ASSEMBLAGES OF ELECTRICAL COMPONENTS
- H05K7/00—Constructional details common to different types of electric apparatus
- H05K7/02—Arrangements of circuit components or wiring on supporting structure
- H05K7/12—Resilient or clamping means for holding component to structure
-
- H—ELECTRICITY
- H05—ELECTRIC TECHNIQUES NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
- H05K—PRINTED CIRCUITS; CASINGS OR CONSTRUCTIONAL DETAILS OF ELECTRIC APPARATUS; MANUFACTURE OF ASSEMBLAGES OF ELECTRICAL COMPONENTS
- H05K7/00—Constructional details common to different types of electric apparatus
- H05K7/14—Mounting supporting structure in casing or on frame or rack
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
- B60K—ARRANGEMENT OR MOUNTING OF PROPULSION UNITS OR OF TRANSMISSIONS IN VEHICLES; ARRANGEMENT OR MOUNTING OF PLURAL DIVERSE PRIME-MOVERS IN VEHICLES; AUXILIARY DRIVES FOR VEHICLES; INSTRUMENTATION OR DASHBOARDS FOR VEHICLES; ARRANGEMENTS IN CONNECTION WITH COOLING, AIR INTAKE, GAS EXHAUST OR FUEL SUPPLY OF PROPULSION UNITS IN VEHICLES
- B60K2360/00—Indexing scheme associated with groups B60K35/00 or B60K37/00 relating to details of instruments or dashboards
- B60K2360/816—Fastening of displays or touch screens
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
- B60K—ARRANGEMENT OR MOUNTING OF PROPULSION UNITS OR OF TRANSMISSIONS IN VEHICLES; ARRANGEMENT OR MOUNTING OF PLURAL DIVERSE PRIME-MOVERS IN VEHICLES; AUXILIARY DRIVES FOR VEHICLES; INSTRUMENTATION OR DASHBOARDS FOR VEHICLES; ARRANGEMENTS IN CONNECTION WITH COOLING, AIR INTAKE, GAS EXHAUST OR FUEL SUPPLY OF PROPULSION UNITS IN VEHICLES
- B60K2360/00—Indexing scheme associated with groups B60K35/00 or B60K37/00 relating to details of instruments or dashboards
- B60K2360/828—Mounting or fastening exchangeable modules
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
- B60K—ARRANGEMENT OR MOUNTING OF PROPULSION UNITS OR OF TRANSMISSIONS IN VEHICLES; ARRANGEMENT OR MOUNTING OF PLURAL DIVERSE PRIME-MOVERS IN VEHICLES; AUXILIARY DRIVES FOR VEHICLES; INSTRUMENTATION OR DASHBOARDS FOR VEHICLES; ARRANGEMENTS IN CONNECTION WITH COOLING, AIR INTAKE, GAS EXHAUST OR FUEL SUPPLY OF PROPULSION UNITS IN VEHICLES
- B60K2360/00—Indexing scheme associated with groups B60K35/00 or B60K37/00 relating to details of instruments or dashboards
- B60K2360/828—Mounting or fastening exchangeable modules
- B60K2360/834—Docking arrangements
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
- B60R—VEHICLES, VEHICLE FITTINGS, OR VEHICLE PARTS, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
- B60R11/00—Arrangements for holding or mounting articles, not otherwise provided for
- B60R2011/0001—Arrangements for holding or mounting articles, not otherwise provided for characterised by position
- B60R2011/0003—Arrangements for holding or mounting articles, not otherwise provided for characterised by position inside the vehicle
- B60R2011/0026—Windows, e.g. windscreen
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
- B60R—VEHICLES, VEHICLE FITTINGS, OR VEHICLE PARTS, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
- B60R11/00—Arrangements for holding or mounting articles, not otherwise provided for
- B60R2011/0042—Arrangements for holding or mounting articles, not otherwise provided for characterised by mounting means
- B60R2011/0049—Arrangements for holding or mounting articles, not otherwise provided for characterised by mounting means for non integrated articles
- B60R2011/005—Connection with the vehicle part
- B60R2011/0063—Connection with the vehicle part using adhesive means, e.g. hook and loop fasteners
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B60—VEHICLES IN GENERAL
- B60R—VEHICLES, VEHICLE FITTINGS, OR VEHICLE PARTS, NOT OTHERWISE PROVIDED FOR
- B60R11/00—Arrangements for holding or mounting articles, not otherwise provided for
- B60R2011/0042—Arrangements for holding or mounting articles, not otherwise provided for characterised by mounting means
- B60R2011/0049—Arrangements for holding or mounting articles, not otherwise provided for characterised by mounting means for non integrated articles
- B60R2011/0064—Connection with the article
Definitions
- This document relates generally to the motor vehicle equipment field and, more particularly, to an electronics systems cluster incorporating a plurality of electronic devices held in a plurality of interlocking brackets.
- the electronics systems cluster has a small footprint and a low profile housing of compact design that minimizes forward vision obstruction.
- the electronics systems cluster may include or hold some or all of the following: (1) an image processing module, also known as image processing module A (IPMA), comprising a camera that provides autonomous emergency braking, lane keep assistance and auto high beam control, (2) a rain light sensor (RLS) which functions as a rain sensor for automatic wiping and as an outdoor light sensor, (3) a USB charger such as a smart charger made for connection to dashboard cameras and other dashboard mounted electronic equipment, (4) an electronic windshield anti-fogging system (EWAFS) comprising a temperature and humidity sensor that provides automatic operation of the defroster when conditions cause fogging of the interior windshield, (5) wire routing features that serve to eliminate rattling of wires within the housing, (6) a tethering hook to ensure safety in the event of interior rearview mirror detachment during a dynamic event, (7) clearances for heater terminals that attach wiring to a local heating grid adapted to maintain the windshield clear for proper operation of the IPMA and (8) cover mounting features that positively retain the housing cover while still providing ready access for service.
- an electronics systems cluster comprises a plurality of brackets, a plurality of electronic devices held in the plurality of brackets and an interlocking feature securing the plurality of brackets directly together.
- each electronic device is held in its own bracket.
- the electronics systems cluster may further include wire routing features on the plurality of brackets.
- the electronics systems cluster may further include a tethering hook on at least one bracket of the plurality of brackets.
- the electronics systems cluster may further include heater terminals for a local windshield heating grid on at least one bracket of the plurality of brackets.
- the electronics systems cluster may further include an adhesive securing the plurality of brackets to a windshield of a motor vehicle. Still further, the electronics systems cluster may further include a cover concealing the plurality of brackets on the windshield.
- an electronics systems cluster may comprise a first bracket, an image processing module A carried on the first bracket, a second bracket, a rain light sensor carried on the second bracket, a third bracket, an electronic windshield anti-fogging system carried on the third bracket and an interlocking feature.
- the interlocking feature secures the second bracket to the first bracket and the third bracket to the second bracket.
- the electronics systems cluster may further include a fourth bracket and a USB port carried on the fourth bracket.
- the interlocking feature secures the fourth bracket to the first bracket.
- the electronics systems cluster may further include an adhesive securing the first bracket, the second bracket, the third bracket and the fourth bracket to a windshield of a motor vehicle.
- the electronics systems cluster may also further include a cover concealing the first bracket, the second bracket, the third bracket and the fourth bracket.
- a method for reducing a footprint of an electronics systems cluster at a top of a windshield of a motor vehicle. That method comprises the steps of (a) locating a plurality of electronic devices in a plurality of brackets, (b) interlocking, by interlocking feature, the plurality of brackets together and (c) adhering, by adhesive, the plurality of brackets to the windshield.
- the method may also include the step of interlocking, by the interlocking feature a fourth bracket carrying a USB port to the first bracket.
- the method may also include the step of providing a wire routing feature on at least one bracket of the plurality of brackets.
- the method may include the step of allowing, by the interlocking feature, freedom of movement perpendicular to a tangent plane of the windshield.
- FIG. 1 a illustrates an electronics systems cluster incorporating a plurality of electronic devices held in individual or separate brackets wherein those brackets do not include any interlocking feature.
- FIG. 1 b is a schematic illustration of the electronics system cluster incorporating an interlocking feature for securing the plurality of brackets directly together and reducing the overall footprint of the electronics systems cluster at the top of a windshield of a motor vehicle.
- FIG. 2 a is a schematic illustration of an interlocking feature incorporating a four-way locator.
- FIG. 2 b is a detailed schematic illustration of an interlocking feature incorporating a two-way locator.
- FIG. 3 is a schematic illustration of an electronics systems cluster incorporating an interlocking feature in the form of a plurality of cooperating dovetail connectors provided along edges of the plurality of brackets and utilized to secure those brackets directly together in a relatively small footprint configuration that minimizes forward vision obstruction.
- FIG. 1 a illustrating an electronics systems cluster C including a plurality of brackets B 1 -B 4 for holding separate electronic devices.
- the double-ended action arrows indicate clearance required between the brackets B 1 -B 4 and the cover buttons CB to robotically place individual brackets on the windshield W.
- the line L indicates the outline of the cover for the electronics systems cluster C which is the effective footprint of such an electronics systems cluster with separate brackets in the absence of any interlocking features to secure those brackets directly together.
- FIG. 1 b is a schematic illustration of the new and improved electronics systems cluster 10 that is the subject matter of this document.
- That electronics systems cluster 10 includes a plurality of brackets 12 1 - 12 n .
- a plurality of electronic devices 14 1 - 14 n are received and held in the plurality of brackets 12 1 - 12 n .
- one electronic device 14 1 - 14 n is held in each of the brackets 12 1 - 12 n .
- the electronics systems cluster 10 also includes an interlocking feature, generally designated by reference numeral 16 , for securing the plurality of brackets 12 1 - 12 n directly together.
- an interlocking feature generally designated by reference numeral 16 , for securing the plurality of brackets 12 1 - 12 n directly together.
- the plurality of brackets 12 1 - 12 n holding the plurality of electronic devices 14 1 - 14 n consume a smaller space and have a smaller footprint. This is visually indicated by comparing the outline of the cover 18 for the electronics systems cluster 10 to the phantom line 20 which represents the expanse of the cover of the electronics systems cluster C illustrated in FIG. 1 a wherein the plurality of brackets B 1 -B 4 do not include any interlocking feature.
- the interlocking feature 16 may include cooperating male connectors 22 and female connectors 24 .
- the male connectors 22 and female connectors 24 may be molded with and formed as an integral part of the brackets 12 1 - 12 n .
- the cooperating male connector 22 received in the female connector 24 may function as a four-way locator (note action arrows A).
- the cooperating male connector 22 received in the female connector 24 may comprise a two-way locator (note action arrow D).
- the interlocking feature 16 may comprise a plurality of cooperating dovetail connectors 26 .
- Those cooperating plurality of dovetail connectors 26 may be provided along edges of the brackets 12 1 - 12 n as shown.
- the first bracket 12 1 receives and holds an image processing module A 30
- the second bracket 12 2 receives and holds a rain light sensor 32
- the third bracket 12 3 receives and holds an electronic windshield anti-fogging system 34
- the fourth bracket 12 n receives and holds a USB port 36 for charging an electronic device or providing a data pathway between an electronic device and an onboard motor vehicle system through the controller area network (CAN) of the motor vehicle.
- the interlocking feature 16 or, more specifically, dovetail connectors 26 secure the second bracket 12 2 to the first bracket 12 1 , the third bracket 12 3 to the second bracket and the fourth bracket 12 n to the first bracket.
- An adhesive 38 secures the first bracket 12 1 , the second bracket 12 2 , the third bracket 12 3 and the fourth bracket 12 n to the windshield 40 of the motor vehicle.
- the cover 18 conceals the brackets 12 1 - 12 n and the electronic devices 14 1 - 14 n held therein from view so as to provide an aesthetically pleasing package.
- cover 18 is secured in place on the cover buttons or clip points 42 .
- the cover buttons or clip points 42 are provided on separate cover brackets 44 1 , 44 2 .
- the cover bracket 44 1 is connected by interlocking features 16 to the third bracket 12 3 while cover bracket 44 2 is connected by the interlocking feature 16 to the fourth bracket 12 n .
- the cover buttons or clip points 42 may be provided on one or more of the brackets 12 1 - 12 n .
- the brackets 12 1 - 12 n may include wire routing features 46 , such as posts, clips or the like, and a tethering hook 48 .
- the wire routing features 46 receive and hold wiring to prevent rattling while the tethering hook 48 functions as an anchor point for a tether connected to a rearview mirror. That tether (not shown) will prevent a rearview mirror from flying freely across the passenger compartment of the motor vehicle in the event of an accident of sufficient force to dislodge the rearview mirror from the windshield.
- Heater terminals 50 may also be carried on one or more of the brackets 12 1 - 12 n or cover brackets 44 1 - 44 2 . Such heater terminals 50 are provided for a local windshield heating grid used to maintain a clear windshield in front of the image processing module A 30 .
- a method for reducing a footprint of an electronics system cluster 10 on top of a windshield 40 of a motor vehicle. That method comprises the steps of: (a) locating a plurality of electronic devices 14 1 - 14 n in a plurality of brackets 12 1 - 12 n , (b) interlocking, by interlocking feature 16 , the plurality of brackets together and (c) adhering, by adhesive 38 the plurality of brackets to the windshield 40 .
- the method includes the step of interlocking, by the interlocking feature 16 , the first bracket 12 1 , carrying an image processing module A 30 with a second bracket 12 2 carrying a rain light sensor 32 . Further, the method may include the step of interlocking, by the interlocking feature 16 , the third bracket 12 3 , carrying an electronic windshield anti-fogging system 34 , to the second bracket 12 2 . Further, the method may include the step of interlocking, by the interlocking feature 16 , the fourth bracket 12 n , carrying a USB port 36 , to the first bracket 12 1 .
- the method may include providing at least one wire routing feature 46 on at least one of the brackets 12 1 - 12 n .
- the method may include allowing, by the interlocking feature 16 , freedom of movement perpendicular to a tangent plane of the windshield 40 .
- the interlocking feature 16 allows for one bracket to be staggered in position with respect to an adjacent bracket in order to accommodate windshield curvature and allow for proper windshield mounting using a simple and inexpensive adhesive. This also allows for windshield variability so that the quick curing adhesive may be used to fix the individual brackets 12 1 - 12 n to a number of different windshields of different shape across a wide model range. This reduces the number of parts required by the motor vehicle manufacturer and provides substantial savings in production costs.
- the interlocking feature 16 comprises cooperating male 22 and female 24 connectors such as the four-way locator schematically illustrated in FIG. 2 a , the two-way locator schematically illustrated in FIG. 2 b , and the cooperating dovetail connectors 26 schematically illustrated in FIG. 3 . It should be appreciated that the interlocking feature 16 may comprise a variety of different shapes and sizes even in the same electronics systems cluster 10 .
- brackets 12 1 - 12 n This would allow the plurality of brackets 12 1 - 12 n to be pieced together in the manner of a puzzle thereby ensuring that the brackets are all interconnected in the proper configuration. All such modifications and variations are within the scope of the appended claims when interpreted in accordance with the breadth to which they are fairly, legally and equitably entitled.
Landscapes
- Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
- Chemical & Material Sciences (AREA)
- Combustion & Propulsion (AREA)
- Transportation (AREA)
- Microelectronics & Electronic Packaging (AREA)
- Computer Security & Cryptography (AREA)
- Casings For Electric Apparatus (AREA)
- Fittings On The Vehicle Exterior For Carrying Loads, And Devices For Holding Or Mounting Articles (AREA)
- Time Recorders, Dirve Recorders, Access Control (AREA)
Abstract
An electronics systems cluster includes a plurality of brackets, a plurality of electronic devices held in the plurality of brackets and an interlocking feature securing the plurality of brackets directly together into a small footprint configuration less likely to interfere with driver sight lines.
Description
This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/804,616 filed on 6 Nov. 2017, the full disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference.
This document relates generally to the motor vehicle equipment field and, more particularly, to an electronics systems cluster incorporating a plurality of electronic devices held in a plurality of interlocking brackets.
This document relates to a new and improved electronics systems cluster that holds a number of different electronic components and safety features along the upper center portion of the windshield of a motor vehicle. Advantageously, the electronics systems cluster has a small footprint and a low profile housing of compact design that minimizes forward vision obstruction. The electronics systems cluster may include or hold some or all of the following: (1) an image processing module, also known as image processing module A (IPMA), comprising a camera that provides autonomous emergency braking, lane keep assistance and auto high beam control, (2) a rain light sensor (RLS) which functions as a rain sensor for automatic wiping and as an outdoor light sensor, (3) a USB charger such as a smart charger made for connection to dashboard cameras and other dashboard mounted electronic equipment, (4) an electronic windshield anti-fogging system (EWAFS) comprising a temperature and humidity sensor that provides automatic operation of the defroster when conditions cause fogging of the interior windshield, (5) wire routing features that serve to eliminate rattling of wires within the housing, (6) a tethering hook to ensure safety in the event of interior rearview mirror detachment during a dynamic event, (7) clearances for heater terminals that attach wiring to a local heating grid adapted to maintain the windshield clear for proper operation of the IPMA and (8) cover mounting features that positively retain the housing cover while still providing ready access for service.
In accordance with the purposes and benefits described herein, an electronics systems cluster is provided. That electronics systems cluster comprises a plurality of brackets, a plurality of electronic devices held in the plurality of brackets and an interlocking feature securing the plurality of brackets directly together. In one possible embodiment, each electronic device is held in its own bracket.
The interlocking feature may include cooperating male and female connectors. In some of the many possible embodiments, the interlocking feature may include a plurality of cooperative dovetail connectors. The plurality of cooperating dovetail connectors may be provided along edges of the plurality of brackets.
The electronic devices may be selected from a group of electronic devices consisting of an image processing module A, a rain light sensor, an electronic windshield anti fogging system, a USB port and combinations thereof.
The electronics systems cluster may further include wire routing features on the plurality of brackets. The electronics systems cluster may further include a tethering hook on at least one bracket of the plurality of brackets. The electronics systems cluster may further include heater terminals for a local windshield heating grid on at least one bracket of the plurality of brackets.
The electronics systems cluster may further include an adhesive securing the plurality of brackets to a windshield of a motor vehicle. Still further, the electronics systems cluster may further include a cover concealing the plurality of brackets on the windshield.
In accordance with an additional aspect, an electronics systems cluster may comprise a first bracket, an image processing module A carried on the first bracket, a second bracket, a rain light sensor carried on the second bracket, a third bracket, an electronic windshield anti-fogging system carried on the third bracket and an interlocking feature. The interlocking feature secures the second bracket to the first bracket and the third bracket to the second bracket.
The electronics systems cluster may further include a fourth bracket and a USB port carried on the fourth bracket. In such an embodiment, the interlocking feature secures the fourth bracket to the first bracket.
The electronics systems cluster may further include an adhesive securing the first bracket, the second bracket, the third bracket and the fourth bracket to a windshield of a motor vehicle. The electronics systems cluster may also further include a cover concealing the first bracket, the second bracket, the third bracket and the fourth bracket.
In accordance with yet another aspect, a method is provided for reducing a footprint of an electronics systems cluster at a top of a windshield of a motor vehicle. That method comprises the steps of (a) locating a plurality of electronic devices in a plurality of brackets, (b) interlocking, by interlocking feature, the plurality of brackets together and (c) adhering, by adhesive, the plurality of brackets to the windshield.
The method may further include the step of interlocking, by the interlocking feature, a first bracket carrying an image processing module A with a second bracket carrying a rain light sensor. Further, the method may include the step of interlocking, by the interlocking feature, a third bracket carrying an electronic windshield anti-fogging system to the second bracket.
The method may also include the step of interlocking, by the interlocking feature a fourth bracket carrying a USB port to the first bracket. The method may also include the step of providing a wire routing feature on at least one bracket of the plurality of brackets. In addition, the method may include the step of allowing, by the interlocking feature, freedom of movement perpendicular to a tangent plane of the windshield.
In the following description, there are shown and described several preferred embodiments of the electronics systems cluster and the related method of reducing a footprint of an electronics systems cluster at a top of a windshield of a motor vehicle. As is should be realized, the electronics systems cluster and related method are capable of other, different embodiments and their several details are capable of modification in various, obvious aspects all without departing from the electronics systems cluster and method as set forth and described in the following claims. Accordingly, the drawings and descriptions should be regarded as illustrative in nature and not as restrictive.
The accompanying drawing figures incorporated herein and forming a part of the specification, illustrate several aspects of the electronics systems cluster and related method together with the description serve to explain certain principles thereof.
Reference will now be made in detail to the present preferred embodiments of the electronics systems cluster, examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawing figures.
Reference is now made to FIG. 1a illustrating an electronics systems cluster C including a plurality of brackets B1-B4 for holding separate electronic devices. The double-ended action arrows indicate clearance required between the brackets B1-B4 and the cover buttons CB to robotically place individual brackets on the windshield W. The line L indicates the outline of the cover for the electronics systems cluster C which is the effective footprint of such an electronics systems cluster with separate brackets in the absence of any interlocking features to secure those brackets directly together.
As illustrated in FIG. 1b , the electronics systems cluster 10 also includes an interlocking feature, generally designated by reference numeral 16, for securing the plurality of brackets 12 1-12 n directly together. By securing the separate or independent brackets 12 1-12 n together, it is no longer necessary to provide space between the brackets for robotic placement as illustrated in FIG. 1a . Accordingly, the plurality of brackets 12 1-12 n holding the plurality of electronic devices 14 1-14 n consume a smaller space and have a smaller footprint. This is visually indicated by comparing the outline of the cover 18 for the electronics systems cluster 10 to the phantom line 20 which represents the expanse of the cover of the electronics systems cluster C illustrated in FIG. 1a wherein the plurality of brackets B1-B4 do not include any interlocking feature.
Advantageously, by reducing the footprint of the electronics system cluster 10 and providing a more compact design, forward vision obstruction by the electronics systems cluster is minimized and the sightlines of the driver are enhanced for easier operation of the motor vehicle.
As illustrated in FIG. 1b , the interlocking feature 16 may include cooperating male connectors 22 and female connectors 24. The male connectors 22 and female connectors 24 may be molded with and formed as an integral part of the brackets 12 1-12 n.
As illustrated in FIG. 2a , the cooperating male connector 22 received in the female connector 24 may function as a four-way locator (note action arrows A). In contrast, as illustrated in FIG. 2b , the cooperating male connector 22 received in the female connector 24 may comprise a two-way locator (note action arrow D).
As illustrated in FIG. 3 , the interlocking feature 16 may comprise a plurality of cooperating dovetail connectors 26. Those cooperating plurality of dovetail connectors 26 may be provided along edges of the brackets 12 1-12 n as shown.
As illustrated in FIG. 3 , the first bracket 12 1 receives and holds an image processing module A 30, the second bracket 12 2 receives and holds a rain light sensor 32, the third bracket 12 3 receives and holds an electronic windshield anti-fogging system 34 and the fourth bracket 12 n receives and holds a USB port 36 for charging an electronic device or providing a data pathway between an electronic device and an onboard motor vehicle system through the controller area network (CAN) of the motor vehicle. In the illustrated embodiment, the interlocking feature 16 or, more specifically, dovetail connectors 26, secure the second bracket 12 2 to the first bracket 12 1, the third bracket 12 3 to the second bracket and the fourth bracket 12 n to the first bracket. An adhesive 38 (on the side hidden from view) secures the first bracket 12 1, the second bracket 12 2, the third bracket 12 3 and the fourth bracket 12 n to the windshield 40 of the motor vehicle. The cover 18 conceals the brackets 12 1-12 n and the electronic devices 14 1-14 n held therein from view so as to provide an aesthetically pleasing package.
The cover 18 is secured in place on the cover buttons or clip points 42. In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 3 , the cover buttons or clip points 42 are provided on separate cover brackets 44 1, 44 2. In the illustrated embodiment, the cover bracket 44 1 is connected by interlocking features 16 to the third bracket 12 3 while cover bracket 44 2 is connected by the interlocking feature 16 to the fourth bracket 12 n. Here it should be appreciated that in other embodiments, the cover buttons or clip points 42 may be provided on one or more of the brackets 12 1-12 n.
In addition to the features described above, the brackets 12 1-12 n may include wire routing features 46, such as posts, clips or the like, and a tethering hook 48. The wire routing features 46 receive and hold wiring to prevent rattling while the tethering hook 48 functions as an anchor point for a tether connected to a rearview mirror. That tether (not shown) will prevent a rearview mirror from flying freely across the passenger compartment of the motor vehicle in the event of an accident of sufficient force to dislodge the rearview mirror from the windshield.
Consistent with the above description, a method is provided for reducing a footprint of an electronics system cluster 10 on top of a windshield 40 of a motor vehicle. That method comprises the steps of: (a) locating a plurality of electronic devices 14 1-14 n in a plurality of brackets 12 1-12 n, (b) interlocking, by interlocking feature 16, the plurality of brackets together and (c) adhering, by adhesive 38 the plurality of brackets to the windshield 40.
In one or more of the many possible embodiments, the method includes the step of interlocking, by the interlocking feature 16, the first bracket 12 1, carrying an image processing module A 30 with a second bracket 12 2 carrying a rain light sensor 32. Further, the method may include the step of interlocking, by the interlocking feature 16, the third bracket 12 3, carrying an electronic windshield anti-fogging system 34, to the second bracket 12 2. Further, the method may include the step of interlocking, by the interlocking feature 16, the fourth bracket 12 n, carrying a USB port 36, to the first bracket 12 1.
In addition, the method may include providing at least one wire routing feature 46 on at least one of the brackets 12 1-12 n. Further, the method may include allowing, by the interlocking feature 16, freedom of movement perpendicular to a tangent plane of the windshield 40. In other words, the interlocking feature 16 allows for one bracket to be staggered in position with respect to an adjacent bracket in order to accommodate windshield curvature and allow for proper windshield mounting using a simple and inexpensive adhesive. This also allows for windshield variability so that the quick curing adhesive may be used to fix the individual brackets 12 1-12 n to a number of different windshields of different shape across a wide model range. This reduces the number of parts required by the motor vehicle manufacturer and provides substantial savings in production costs.
The foregoing has been presented for purposes of illustration and description. It is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the embodiments to the precise form disclosed. Obvious modifications and variations are possible in light of the above teachings. For example, as illustrated above, the interlocking feature 16 comprises cooperating male 22 and female 24 connectors such as the four-way locator schematically illustrated in FIG. 2a , the two-way locator schematically illustrated in FIG. 2b , and the cooperating dovetail connectors 26 schematically illustrated in FIG. 3 . It should be appreciated that the interlocking feature 16 may comprise a variety of different shapes and sizes even in the same electronics systems cluster 10. This would allow the plurality of brackets 12 1-12 n to be pieced together in the manner of a puzzle thereby ensuring that the brackets are all interconnected in the proper configuration. All such modifications and variations are within the scope of the appended claims when interpreted in accordance with the breadth to which they are fairly, legally and equitably entitled.
Claims (16)
1. An electronics systems cluster, comprising:
a plurality of brackets;
a plurality of electronic devices held in said plurality of brackets; and
an interlocking feature provided along edges of said plurality of brackets wherein said interlocking feature is configured to allow freedom of movement between said plurality of brackets perpendicular to a tangent plane of a windshield to which said plurality of brackets are to be adhered whereby said plurality of brackets are secured directly together and staggered in position with respect to one another in order to accommodate curvature of a windshield.
2. The electronics systems cluster of claim 1 , wherein said interlocking feature extends laterally between said plurality of brackets.
3. The electronics systems cluster of claim 2 , wherein said interlocking feature includes cooperating male and female connectors.
4. The electronics systems cluster of claim 3 , wherein said cooperating male and female connectors allow said plurality of brackets to be staggered in position with respect to one another in order to accommodate curvature of a windshield and allow for proper windshield mounting.
5. The electronics systems cluster of claim 4 , further including an adhesive securing said plurality of brackets to said windshield.
6. The electronics systems cluster of claim 1 , wherein said interlocking feature includes cooperating male and female connectors.
7. The electronics systems cluster of claim 6 , wherein said cooperating male and female connectors allow said plurality of brackets to be staggered in position with respect to one another in order to accommodate curvature of a windshield and allow for proper windshield mounting.
8. The electronics systems cluster of claim 1 , further including an adhesive securing said plurality of brackets to a windshield.
9. An electronics systems duster, comprising:
a plurality of brackets;
a plurality of electronic devices held in said plurality of brackets; and
a common interlocking feature provided on said plurality of brackets and configured to secure said plurality of brackets directly together in a staggered configuration in order to accommodate curvature of a windshield and allow for proper windshield mounting;
wherein said interlocking feature is configured to allow freedom of movement between said plurality of brackets perpendicular to a tangent plane of a windshield.
10. The electronics systems cluster of claim 9 , wherein said common interlocking feature is a two-way locator.
11. The electronics systems cluster of claim 10 , wherein said two-way locator is cooperating male and female connectors.
12. The electronics systems cluster of claim 9 , wherein said interlocking feature is a four way locator.
13. The electronics systems cluster of claim 12 , wherein said four way locator is a plurality of cooperating dove tail connectors.
14. A method of constructing and mounting an electronics systems cluster to a windshield of a motor vehicle, comprising:
interconnecting, by an interlocking feature, a plurality of brackets carrying a plurality of electronic devices; and
staggering said plurality of brackets with respect to one another in order to accommodate curvature of said windshield and allow for proper windshield mounting;
allowing, by said interlocking feature, freedom of movement between said plurality of brackets perpendicular to a tangent plane of said windshield.
15. The method of claim 14 , including adhering, by an adhesive, said plurality of brackets to said windshield.
16. The method of claim 15 , including providing a plurality of cooperating dovetail connectors for said interlocking feature.
Priority Applications (1)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US16/288,443 US10457223B2 (en) | 2017-11-06 | 2019-02-28 | Electronics systems cluster with interlocking brackets |
Applications Claiming Priority (2)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US15/804,616 US10457222B2 (en) | 2017-11-06 | 2017-11-06 | Electronics systems cluster with interlocking brackets |
US16/288,443 US10457223B2 (en) | 2017-11-06 | 2019-02-28 | Electronics systems cluster with interlocking brackets |
Related Parent Applications (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US15/804,616 Continuation US10457222B2 (en) | 2017-11-06 | 2017-11-06 | Electronics systems cluster with interlocking brackets |
Publications (2)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
US20190193642A1 US20190193642A1 (en) | 2019-06-27 |
US10457223B2 true US10457223B2 (en) | 2019-10-29 |
Family
ID=65817576
Family Applications (2)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US15/804,616 Active US10457222B2 (en) | 2017-11-06 | 2017-11-06 | Electronics systems cluster with interlocking brackets |
US16/288,443 Active US10457223B2 (en) | 2017-11-06 | 2019-02-28 | Electronics systems cluster with interlocking brackets |
Family Applications Before (1)
Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
---|---|---|---|
US15/804,616 Active US10457222B2 (en) | 2017-11-06 | 2017-11-06 | Electronics systems cluster with interlocking brackets |
Country Status (3)
Country | Link |
---|---|
US (2) | US10457222B2 (en) |
CN (1) | CN209553109U (en) |
DE (1) | DE202018106257U1 (en) |
Citations (18)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US20080212215A1 (en) * | 1998-01-07 | 2008-09-04 | Donnelly Corporation | Information display system for a vehicle |
US20090295181A1 (en) * | 2004-12-15 | 2009-12-03 | Magna Donnelly Electronics Naas Limited | Accessory module system for a vehicle window |
US20100090086A1 (en) * | 2008-10-10 | 2010-04-15 | Gm Global Technology Operations, Inc. | Rearview mirror bracket |
US20100110641A1 (en) * | 2008-10-31 | 2010-05-06 | Tetsuhide Okahashi | Power supply apparatus |
US20110233248A1 (en) | 2008-10-04 | 2011-09-29 | Daimler Ag | Carrier Device For Attaching To A Pane Of A Motor Vehicle |
US20120105990A1 (en) * | 2010-10-28 | 2012-05-03 | Gm Global Technology Operations, Inc. | Inside rearview mirror assembly |
US20130214548A1 (en) | 2010-09-25 | 2013-08-22 | Volkswagen Ag | Vehicle having an overhead console |
US20140226329A1 (en) * | 2013-02-11 | 2014-08-14 | Nthdegree Technologies Worldwide Inc. | Interlocking light sheet tiles |
US20140226012A1 (en) * | 2011-08-02 | 2014-08-14 | Magna Electronics Inc. | Vehicle vision system with camera module mounting bracket |
US20150015713A1 (en) * | 2011-08-02 | 2015-01-15 | Magma Electronics Inc. | Vehicle vision system with light baffling system |
US20150097013A1 (en) * | 2013-10-04 | 2015-04-09 | Magna Mirrors Of America, Inc. | Accessory system for a vehicle |
US20150251605A1 (en) * | 2014-03-10 | 2015-09-10 | Magna Mirrors Of America, Inc. | Vehicle vision system with camera and mirror mount |
US20150314735A1 (en) | 2012-11-02 | 2015-11-05 | Daimler Ag | Holder for fastening a component to a glass pane |
US20160069557A1 (en) * | 2013-04-26 | 2016-03-10 | R. Stahl Schaltgeräte GmbH | Explosion-protected arrangement of electrical and/or electronic components |
US20160096489A1 (en) * | 1999-08-25 | 2016-04-07 | Magna Electronics Inc. | Accessory system for a vehicle |
WO2016076589A1 (en) | 2014-11-10 | 2016-05-19 | Lg Electronics Inc. | Integrated overhead console assembly for vehicle |
US9434314B2 (en) * | 1998-04-08 | 2016-09-06 | Donnelly Corporation | Electronic accessory system for a vehicle |
EP3103684A1 (en) | 2015-06-11 | 2016-12-14 | Continental Automotive GmbH | Camera bracket for a vehicle |
-
2017
- 2017-11-06 US US15/804,616 patent/US10457222B2/en active Active
-
2018
- 2018-11-01 CN CN201821793464.2U patent/CN209553109U/en active Active
- 2018-11-02 DE DE202018106257.3U patent/DE202018106257U1/en active Active
-
2019
- 2019-02-28 US US16/288,443 patent/US10457223B2/en active Active
Patent Citations (20)
Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
---|---|---|---|---|
US20080212215A1 (en) * | 1998-01-07 | 2008-09-04 | Donnelly Corporation | Information display system for a vehicle |
US9434314B2 (en) * | 1998-04-08 | 2016-09-06 | Donnelly Corporation | Electronic accessory system for a vehicle |
US20160096489A1 (en) * | 1999-08-25 | 2016-04-07 | Magna Electronics Inc. | Accessory system for a vehicle |
US20090295181A1 (en) * | 2004-12-15 | 2009-12-03 | Magna Donnelly Electronics Naas Limited | Accessory module system for a vehicle window |
US20110233248A1 (en) | 2008-10-04 | 2011-09-29 | Daimler Ag | Carrier Device For Attaching To A Pane Of A Motor Vehicle |
US20100090086A1 (en) * | 2008-10-10 | 2010-04-15 | Gm Global Technology Operations, Inc. | Rearview mirror bracket |
US20100110641A1 (en) * | 2008-10-31 | 2010-05-06 | Tetsuhide Okahashi | Power supply apparatus |
US20130214548A1 (en) | 2010-09-25 | 2013-08-22 | Volkswagen Ag | Vehicle having an overhead console |
US20120105990A1 (en) * | 2010-10-28 | 2012-05-03 | Gm Global Technology Operations, Inc. | Inside rearview mirror assembly |
US20140226012A1 (en) * | 2011-08-02 | 2014-08-14 | Magna Electronics Inc. | Vehicle vision system with camera module mounting bracket |
US20150015713A1 (en) * | 2011-08-02 | 2015-01-15 | Magma Electronics Inc. | Vehicle vision system with light baffling system |
US9487159B2 (en) | 2011-08-02 | 2016-11-08 | Magna Electronics Inc. | Vehicle vision system with camera module mounting bracket |
US20150314735A1 (en) | 2012-11-02 | 2015-11-05 | Daimler Ag | Holder for fastening a component to a glass pane |
US20140226329A1 (en) * | 2013-02-11 | 2014-08-14 | Nthdegree Technologies Worldwide Inc. | Interlocking light sheet tiles |
US20160069557A1 (en) * | 2013-04-26 | 2016-03-10 | R. Stahl Schaltgeräte GmbH | Explosion-protected arrangement of electrical and/or electronic components |
US20150097013A1 (en) * | 2013-10-04 | 2015-04-09 | Magna Mirrors Of America, Inc. | Accessory system for a vehicle |
US20150251605A1 (en) * | 2014-03-10 | 2015-09-10 | Magna Mirrors Of America, Inc. | Vehicle vision system with camera and mirror mount |
US9604576B2 (en) | 2014-03-10 | 2017-03-28 | Magna Mirrors Of America, Inc. | Vehicle vision system with camera and mirror mount |
WO2016076589A1 (en) | 2014-11-10 | 2016-05-19 | Lg Electronics Inc. | Integrated overhead console assembly for vehicle |
EP3103684A1 (en) | 2015-06-11 | 2016-12-14 | Continental Automotive GmbH | Camera bracket for a vehicle |
Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
DE202018106257U1 (en) | 2019-03-01 |
US20190135190A1 (en) | 2019-05-09 |
CN209553109U (en) | 2019-10-29 |
US20190193642A1 (en) | 2019-06-27 |
US10457222B2 (en) | 2019-10-29 |
Similar Documents
Publication | Publication Date | Title |
---|---|---|
US20180345865A1 (en) | Electronic systems center for a motor vehicle | |
US11427127B2 (en) | Vehicular rearview mirror control system | |
EP2766224B1 (en) | Integrated rear camera display | |
US9573525B2 (en) | Mirror mounting assembly | |
US10486599B2 (en) | Rearview vision system for vehicle | |
US7480149B2 (en) | Accessory module for vehicle | |
CN108449533B (en) | Vehicle camera system | |
EP3153922A1 (en) | Camera module and system for preventing of dew condensation in camera module | |
EP4362479A2 (en) | Camera device | |
CN105843375A (en) | Vehicle setting method and apparatus, and vehicle electronic information system | |
US20090289811A1 (en) | Display system and vehicle having the same | |
CN105922936A (en) | Vehicle-mounted image shooting device and vehicle | |
US20120105990A1 (en) | Inside rearview mirror assembly | |
US10518717B2 (en) | Video-camera device for a motor vehicle and assembly method | |
US20160107571A1 (en) | Integrated deck lid module for a motor vehicle | |
US20230078512A1 (en) | Overhead console accessory system with shared controls, cameras, and lighting | |
WO2008157488A1 (en) | Blind connector for rearview mirror | |
US10457223B2 (en) | Electronics systems cluster with interlocking brackets | |
EP2963912A1 (en) | Molded camera | |
JP2020117070A (en) | Control device for movable body | |
US20170113620A1 (en) | Electronic circuit for a blind-spot monitoring display | |
US20230284386A1 (en) | Vehicular overhead console with flexible circuit board | |
CN111483429B (en) | Camera defogging device and vehicle | |
US9896032B2 (en) | Folding mirror apparatus and method for improving fuel efficiency | |
JP7139324B2 (en) | Connector device, in-vehicle camera device, and connector system |
Legal Events
Date | Code | Title | Description |
---|---|---|---|
FEPP | Fee payment procedure |
Free format text: ENTITY STATUS SET TO UNDISCOUNTED (ORIGINAL EVENT CODE: BIG.); ENTITY STATUS OF PATENT OWNER: LARGE ENTITY |
|
STPP | Information on status: patent application and granting procedure in general |
Free format text: PUBLICATIONS -- ISSUE FEE PAYMENT VERIFIED |
|
STCF | Information on status: patent grant |
Free format text: PATENTED CASE |
|
CC | Certificate of correction | ||
MAFP | Maintenance fee payment |
Free format text: PAYMENT OF MAINTENANCE FEE, 4TH YEAR, LARGE ENTITY (ORIGINAL EVENT CODE: M1551); ENTITY STATUS OF PATENT OWNER: LARGE ENTITY Year of fee payment: 4 |